Ground Beef Baked Ziti

Name: Ground Beef Baked Ziti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

A comforting and hearty dish, ground beef baked ziti is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Created by

Mia

Last updated on 2025-12-25T18:40:13.715Z

This baked ziti recipe combines ground beef with perfectly cooked pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese. It's a dish that brings everyone together around the table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying for a crowd
Layers of cheesy goodness in every bite
Easy to make and perfect for leftovers

      

The Perfect Family Meal

Ground beef baked ziti is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug in a dish. This recipe encapsulates the essence of comfort food, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters at the table. When served with a side salad and garlic bread, it transforms into a complete dining experience that everyone will rave about.

What makes this baked ziti so special is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on dietary preferences, making it a great option whether you're cooking for meat lovers or vegetarians. Substitute the ground beef with turkey or a plant-based protein, and you’ll still enjoy that signature layered goodness. This dish invites creativity in the kitchen, so feel free to experiment with spices and additional vegetables!

A Time-Saving Recipe

One of the standout features of ground beef baked ziti is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a great choice for busy weeknights. You can have this delicious dish ready in under an hour, making it a life-saver when you're short on time but still want to serve something homemade. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, so it's perfect for meal prep.

If you're looking to save even more time, consider preparing the meat sauce in advance and storing it in the fridge or freezer. This way, when you're ready to whip up the baked ziti, all you have to do is cook the pasta, combine the ingredients, and bake. It’s a great way to streamline your dinner routine without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Serving Suggestions

When serving ground beef baked ziti, a simple side salad can elevate the meal to new heights. A fresh mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will complement the richness of the baked ziti beautifully. You can also add some crusty garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks to the table for that extra touch of indulgence. These sides not only enhance the dining experience but also help to balance the flavors of the main dish.

For a finishing touch, consider garnishing the baked ziti with fresh basil leaves before serving. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also brings a fresh aroma that makes the dish even more inviting. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a hint of heat for those who enjoy a little kick. With these simple suggestions, your baked ziti will impress both family and guests alike.

Ingredients

For the Baked Ziti

12 oz ziti pasta
1 lb ground beef
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Gather all your ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking process.

Steps

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Pour in the meat sauce and mix until well combined.

Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer half of the ziti mixture, followed by half of the remaining mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers and top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Garnish with fresh basil before serving for an extra touch of flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing leftover baked ziti is incredibly easy. Simply let the dish cool to room temperature, then cover it tightly with aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight container. Baked ziti can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. If you're freezing it, consider dividing it into smaller portions for easier reheating later on.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating baked ziti is a breeze. You can either microwave individual portions or reheat the entire dish in the oven. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. If you want to freshen it up, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before baking!

Nutritional Information

Ground beef baked ziti is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of macronutrients. A typical serving contains protein from the ground beef, carbohydrates from the pasta, and healthy fats from the cheese. This makes it a well-rounded meal that can fuel your day. However, it's essential to be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you're watching your caloric intake.

If you're interested in making this dish a bit healthier, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free ziti pasta, which can add more fiber to the meal. Additionally, you can substitute part of the ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a lower-calorie option without sacrificing creaminess. These adjustments can help you enjoy this comforting dish while staying aligned with your dietary goals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat sauce for added nutrition.